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Opinion

Power scandal shows politicians' arrogance 

Redi Midgett
Opinion Columnist

There was once a period in society when the rich lorded over the poor, controlling populations with their power and wealth. Kings reigned over their subjects, creating the law yet excusing themselves from that law. In the developed world, these days are long gone, as society pushes toward equality. The Dark Ages are no more, and a bright new future has opened up.

Except in Memphis.

It was recently revealed that certain men in power in Memphis, Tenn., were excused from paying power bills. Memphis Light, Gas and Water allowed several men to be put on a "list" of customers who were excused from paying bills without fear of their power being cut off. 

City councilman Edmund Ford was at the center of this scandal. Month after month he neglected to pay his bills, and there were no repercussions. He was allowed to escape the responsibility of paying his bills until he eventually owed more than $16,000. Yet his home and the funeral parlor he owns stayed brightly lit.

Several other prominent men in the state were also put on "The List," including other city councilmen, a judge and a state representative. All of this occurred while regular citizens struggled to pay much lower bills and were punished for not doing so.

It's strange that men in power, elected by the people, are allowed to step above the law -- laws that councilmen and state representatives help to make and judges help to enforce. These men have become kings of their own domains, expecting their subjects to follow their laws while showing they feel they do not have the same responsibility. 

Perhaps it is the utility company's fault for creating this list in the first place, apparently in hopes of gaining favor with these politicians and expecting laws that will benefit the company. Though not all of the politicians on the list took advantage of the underhanded move, people like Ford accepted it with open arms.

This is not a characteristic of democracy. When politicians see there are no consequences for breaking the law, they fall further into corruption and thirst for more power. They must recognize that they will receive punishment for their irresponsibility, as Ford realized when the scandal broke. 

This country cannot allow the arrogance of politicians to control it. The people are the ones who should control the politicians and their actions, not the other way around. Politicians are in place in this country to reflect the views of the people and respect them, and this scandal is yet another example of their disrespect for the people and refusal to recognize that they are citizens and must follow the law as everyone else.

Midgett, a communication junior, 
can be reached via dccampus@mail.uh.edu